17th Nov 2009, 22:05

They do have problems with both automatic and manual transmissions needing repair or rebuilding (more frequent than other Japanese trucks but not as frequent as Ford Explorers). Yes the 3.0 L V6 has problems with broken exhaust manifold studs throughout the Nissan line. Nissan Pathfinders and trucks don't hold up well in the rust belt. You expect the normal wheel well, fender and tailgate rust, but these trucks will have their frames rusted beyond repair. You see lots of crooked used car dealers and private sales where they try to hide the rust with fiberglass filler and or undercoating. I've seen pick ups slit in half behind the cab, and Pathfinders with collapsed suspension. All those one for sale for $300 - $800 are usually rust buckets. The 96 and newer models are much better. There's VW diesel engine swap kits available for frugal owners, and the performance isn't much different than the anemic gas engines they replace.

13th Jan 2011, 13:38

Older model Pathfinders are notorious for transmission failures, which are primarily due to heat buildup, which is the great killer of transmissions of all types. This will be seen more often in hotter Southern climates than in the Great White North - all other driving conditions being equal.

Part of the reason for the excessive heat is a poorly designed and easily clogged stock tranny cooler that lives in the radiator. These transmissions benefit greatly from adding an aftermarket stacked plate transmission cooler mounted in front of the radiator, and bypassing the stock cooler altogether.